'Turkey was pretty rough as well' - Bobo not worried about Glory's physicality

Michael Huguenin

'Turkey was pretty rough as well' - Bobo not worried about Glory's physicality image

Sydney FC striker Bobo doesn't fear physical football as the Sky Blues prepare to host Perth Glory in Saturday's A-League semi-final.

Before Glory's win over Melbourne City in Sunday's elimination final, Perth striker Andy Keogh was unapologetic about his side's rugged approach. 

"Football is a physical game," he told reporters. 

"You don't win games by not being physical." 

Keogh: Glory better than City

Glory were first to the majority of contests in their subsequent 2-0 win as they appeared better prepared for the battle at AAMI Park as City produced an insipid performance.

But if Perth want to get in the face of Sydney's Brazilian marksman at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night, Bobo isn't fazed.

Bobo Central Coast Mariners v Sydney FC A-League 08012017

Bobo, Sydney FC

Before arriving in Australia, Bobo had nine seasons in Turkey, including a five-year stint at Besiktas where he scored 60 goals in 144 appearances, and rugged play has long been a hallmark of the Turkish Super Lig.

"I'm used to it," he told reporters through an interpreter. 

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"It doesn't worry me because in Turkey they were pretty rough as well. 

"It's no different here to the way they play elsewhere in the world."

Bobo has been a standout in his debut season for the Sky Blues, scoring 15 goals, including one in each of Sydney's three meetings with Perth Glory.

In fact, Sydney netted 11 goals in those three games, all of which they won comfortably, although Bobo was quick to dismiss the past.

Djulbic: Glory's defence was a big focus

"Perth have a good defence," he said.

"That's why they are in the semi-finals.

"But we have to stay focused on the things that have helped us to win many times this season."

Dino Djulbic Lucian Goian Melbourne City v Perth Glory A-League 23042017

Dino Djulbic and Lucian Goian, Perth Glory

Against City, Dino Djulbic and Lucian Goian impressed in the centre of Perth's defence, with the duo combining for 29 clearances, 11 interceptions and 12 ball recoveries.

City entered Glory's penalty area 40 times compared the visitors' 20 but only tested Perth goalkeeper Liam Reddy on two occasions.

 

Michael Huguenin